Learning by doing sticks with kids

Published 1:11 pm, Monday, April 25, 2016

They gain knowledge from the books they read, the technology they use, and the adults who teach. They also learn important lessons through extra curricular activities and from their peers. All are important in helping to shape young people as they approach adulthood. But there's still nothing quite like "hands-on" learning when it comes to applying what you've learned and then retaining that knowledge.

Recently dozens of high school students from Huron and Tuscola counties participated in the annual Land Judging Day hosted by the two county's conservation districts. Students are transported to an outdoor classroom to put the knowledge they've learned indoors to the test. During the day they go through various stations, judging the land on such things as moisture and soil type. Students also work together in teams throughout the day as they strive to place in the front of the pack when all is said and done.

Events like Land Judging Day help to reinforce what students learn from books and teachers, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, problem solving and working together with others. Learning by doing is a great tool and can make for a fun learning environment. What's not to like about that?